Talking about your feelings can be helpful when you are dealing with distressing or difficult emotions. It can be a huge help to open up to someone who you trust.
You can feel more empowered and connected by talking about your feelings and experiences to a friend, family, or community member.
It can be not easy to open up and share your feelings. You may be worried about being judged or invalidated or that the other person will not have time to talk or won’t care.
It’s crucial to select the right person and the right time. It’s fine if you don’t know anyone! Some resources can also help. This tool can help you find a GP who can discuss your mental health.
Talking to someone can be so beneficial that many people wish they’d done it earlier.
We’re here to show you how to communicate with someone.
What is the benefit of talking to someone who you trust?
When you are going through a difficult time, talking to someone you can trust will help you feel better. Opening up can help you to feel more connected with others and less alone.
You can get help by:
You’re not the only one going through difficult times.
Stress Relief or reducing your burdens and concerns.
It is easier to deal with your problem if you break it down into smaller pieces.
You can gain a fresh perspective on an experience or situation, which may help you find solutions.
Verbalising your feelings. When we describe our feelings, we may be able to understand better how they affect us and what we need to do to move on.
You don’t always need someone to fix your problems. Sometimes, you want someone to listen to you and allow you to vent.
When you feel overwhelmed, talking to someone you can trust will help you relieve some of the pressure.
Who can I talk to?
You might want to start by thinking about who you should talk to. List all the people you trust in your life. Include family, friends, or even a mentor or teacher.
It’s scary to trust someone with your feelings. You might want to try sharing something small that you don’t feel as vulnerable about with someone you trust. You can share more if they are respectful and genuine.
Talking to someone outside your immediate family can sometimes be easier or more helpful. If you feel more comfortable, you may want to reach out to a confidential organization such as Friends for Good. Or, if you are in a crisis, you can also call Lifeline.
Friends For Good
Anyone who is feeling lonely and wants to chat with a friendly volunteer can use the telephone or online chat service.
When is the best time to buy?
When it comes to discussing important issues, timing is crucial.
Find a conversational style that suits you. Finding a trusted person who is willing to listen to your feelings and experiences can be a challenge.
You can also chat over the phone or via message, or you can even send a letter or draw a picture if you prefer.
Find a time that your friend can fully focus on you. Choose a place that makes you feel comfortable. Consider suggesting:
After catching up or at the end of an event, having a chat is a good idea.
Walking or engaging in an activity that allows you to chat is a great way to spend time together.
What are you saying?
It might be helpful to come up with a few ideas for what to say after you have decided who you want to speak to. Write your thoughts down on paper or speak them aloud. It would be best if you did whatever makes you comfortable.
Consider the following:
What’s on Your Mind?
What is your greatest concern?
What or why is it bothering you?
What does it make me feel like?
What is the impact on you?
What part of your life does this concern affect the most?
You can also help your trusted person by being specific about the type of assistance you require. Are you looking for someone to listen, or are you seeking advice or help? This can be useful to know from the beginning.
It can be helpful to use ‘I’ statements when you are ready to start the conversation. You could start the conversation by:
Don’t let your feelings go if their response isn’t as you expected. You might want to reconsider the person you would like to speak to or find a support service instead.
